Helsinki

While we were in Finland, we got one evening--one evening only--to check out Helsinki.  It was a really great town, with a big city feel and lots of wide streets, beautiful buildings and super cool people!  

I wish we'd had a bit more time there, but we had fun with the time we had and I learned enough about the city to know that I want to go back.  Here are some pictures in case you are interested...

Family tree

A few weeks ago, I went up to Finland with my in-laws and got a chance to see where Peter's mom is from.  It was a truly special experience and great family time.  One day, we had a chance to see Peter's great-grandparents' house, which was full of history and detail. (You know how much I love detail.)  I could almost feel the presence of his ancestors in all the old paper, matchboxes and rocking chairs.  I could have spent hours there, it felt so comfortable and worn in.  

I hope to have a chance to go back sometime, maybe some summer when Peter and I can sip lemonade as we look out at the lake.  Here are some pictures.  

Foodie Friday: Mango, black bean, quinoa salad

This is the perfect weeknight dinner.  It's fresh, summery and delicious.  It takes almost no preparation, no effort.  It's healthy (and let's face it, weeknights are when we try to be healthy).  Cilantro and spice give it the perfect kick.  

Instagram/update

You may have noticed that things have been a little MIA over here the last few months.  I would like to say that it was entirely because of my busy schedule but that wouldn't be completely true.  I mean, I have been busy--I have been working a lot, running all over Bavaria and have been traveling a bit for personal reasons on top of it all.  

But, I think the real reason for my absence here has been a general burnt out feeling and a lack of inspiration.  Between my working hours and the dreary (and never-ending) last days of winter, blah has been the word to describe my mood as of late.  I spent most of the months of March and April wrapped in a blanket on the couch, watching television and eating my weight in comfort foods.  What was there to blog about really?

But, since the sun came out at the beginning of May and the trees finally grew back their summery green coats, I have been feeling muuuuuuuuuuch better and more inspired again.  

For the mothers

I am an awfully long way away from my mom.  Some days all I can think about is having lunch and iced tea with her or having her give me a hug.  Still, every day I feel so, so lucky to have such a wonderful, loving, giving person to call any time of the day or night.  

I can't do much for my mom this year for Mother's Day (and have shamefully even failed at getting a card in the mail on time), but if I could do something for her, this is what I would do...

It's here

The last few days have been incredibly spring-like and it feels something a little like heaven.  Yesterday was a warm 75 degrees and sunny and I enjoyed walking home from work and taking an evening run.  Today was almost humid with a little thunder shower and coffee with my honey in the courtyard of a cafe.  I swear the leaves are coming out so quickly that I can actually see them moving.  After 6 months of winter--I have been keeping track--it is such a relief.  

The only dark cloud hanging over these beautiful days is yesterday's news out of Boston.  My heart is heavy for everyone affected.  It's a situation I can't even imagine being in but that sadly seems more and more likely with each passing year.  My heart and thoughts are with everyone in Boston.  Squeeze your loved ones tight today.  

Checking in and feeling grateful

Look at that: one week gone by and not even one post.  I am a bad blogger.  But, goodness, is life sweet today.  I  have a glass of wine in my hands and am about to eat some panna cotta (my current obsession).  I am sitting on the couch with the love of my life after having gone out to a nice little dinner at our neighborhood cafe.  The sun was shining today and it should shine the rest of the weekend.  Spring is finally here.  I plan on spending all my time outdoors.